Caught in the act: Tinsukia's 'Hall of Shame' turns public nuisance into prime-time viewing

- Jul 11, 2026,
- Updated Jul 11, 2026, 9:57 AM IST
If mirrors weren't enough to make people think twice before relieving themselves on public roads, Tinsukia has now upgraded to something far more difficult to ignore—a giant public screen.
After experimenting with roadside mirrors to invoke a little self-consciousness among habitual offenders, the Tinsukia Municipal Board has unveiled its latest cleanliness drive: the "Hall of Shame" campaign, where CCTV footage of people allegedly caught urinating in public or littering is played on LED screens across the town.
The message is simple: if civic sense doesn't stop you, public embarrassment just might.
The civic body has installed surveillance cameras at several vulnerable locations to monitor violations of sanitation norms. Those allegedly caught in the act may find themselves starring—unwillingly—on roadside digital displays.
Officials say the initiative is aimed at promoting civic responsibility and deterring repeat offenders through public awareness rather than punitive action.
The campaign has quickly become a talking point in the town. Supporters argue that unconventional problems sometimes require unconventional solutions, with many applauding the municipality for taking a creative approach to tackling chronic issues like open urination and littering.
Not everyone, however, is convinced.
Critics have questioned whether publicly displaying footage of alleged offenders crosses the line between civic enforcement and public shaming. Some have also raised concerns about privacy and whether such measures could violate individual rights.
The debate has added another layer to Tinsukia's cleanliness campaign—balancing public hygiene with personal privacy.
For now, one thing is certain: in Tinsukia, the road to cleanliness may come with an unexpected spotlight. Citizens who once ignored "No Urinating" signs may now find that the town's newest audience is watching.